Smelly shoes can be a source of embarrassment and discomfort, especially when you’re around others. Thankfully, there are quick, easy solutions to eliminate shoe odors using items you probably already have at home.

In this guide on how to remove smell from shoes instantly, I’ll show you how to remove bad smells from shoes instantly and offer tips on keeping your shoes fresh for longer.

Why Do Shoes Smell?

Bacteria and Sweat

One of the primary reasons shoes develop a bad odor is the combination of sweat and bacteria. Feet naturally sweat, and when moisture from your feet soaks into your shoes, it creates a warm, damp environment that bacteria love. As the bacteria break down the sweat, they release unpleasant smells, causing your shoes to stink.

Poor Air Circulation

Shoes made of synthetic materials or shoes with poor ventilation don’t allow sweat to evaporate properly, trapping moisture inside. The lack of airflow keeps the shoes damp, which worsens the smell over time. Without proper air circulation, it’s harder for your shoes to dry out between uses, making the odor more persistent.

Smart DIY Tips on How to Remove Smell from Shoes Instantly

1. Baking Soda for Odor Absorption

Baking soda considered to be the most effective natural deodorizers of all. It absorbs moisture and neutralizes odors, making it an excellent option for smelly shoes.

• Method: Sprinkle a tablespoon of baking soda into each shoe, making sure to cover the insoles. Let it sit overnight, and in the morning, shake out the excess powder. Baking soda works by absorbing the moisture where the odor-causing bacteria thrive. If you prefer, place the baking soda in a coffee filter or sock before placing it inside the shoe to prevent direct contact with the fabric.

2. Deodorizing Spray

A quick fix for shoe odors is using a deodorizing spray, which is available in most stores. These sprays often contain antibacterial agents that kill the odor-causing bacteria while leaving a pleasant scent behind.

• Method: Spray the inside of each shoe, focusing on the areas where your feet rest. Let the shoes air dry for 2-3 hours before wearing them. Be careful when using sprays on materials like leather, as too much moisture can damage the fabric.

3. Vinegar and Water Solution

Vinegar is a powerful disinfectant that can neutralize bad smells caused by bacteria.

• Method: Mix the same amount of white vinegar & water in a spray bottle. Lightly spray the inside of the shoes, ensuring they are not soaked, and let them air dry completely. The vinegar smell will dissipate as the shoes dry, leaving your footwear odor-free.

4. Essential Oils for Freshness

Essential oils like tea tree, lavender, or eucalyptus not only have antibacterial properties but also leave a refreshing scent behind. They help in killing bacteria while providing a natural fragrance.

• Method: Add 3-4 drops of essential oil to a tissue and place it inside your shoes. Let it stay overnight to allow the oils to freshen the shoes. Alternatively, you can directly add a few drops of oil onto the insoles and leave them to dry.

5. Freeze Your Shoes

Freezing your shoes can kill the bacteria causing the odor. The cold temperature stops bacterial growth, and once the shoes are thawed, they will smell significantly fresher.

• Method: Place your shoes inside a sealed plastic bag and leave them in the freezer overnight. The next morning, take them out and let them thaw in the sun. This method works especially well for sneakers and fabric shoes.

6. Activated Charcoal or Tea Bags

Activated charcoal is highly effective at absorbing moisture and odors, while tea bags can help with lighter smells.

• Method: Place activated charcoal bags or dry tea bags inside your shoes overnight. The charcoal absorbs excess moisture and neutralizes odors, while the tea bags leave behind a subtle scent. Both options are easy to use and mess-free.

7. Citrus Peels for a Natural Freshener

Lemon, lime, or orange peels can naturally freshen your shoes by leaving behind a citrus scent. The peels help mask unpleasant odors while adding a refreshing fragrance.

• Method: Place fresh citrus peels inside your shoes and leave them overnight. By morning, your shoes will have a pleasant, fresh smell.

Preventing Shoe Odor in the Future

1. Wearing Socks

Socks are essential for absorbing sweat and preventing moisture from soaking into your shoes. Cotton socks, in particular, are great at absorbing sweat, keeping both your feet and shoes dry. If you often wear shoes without socks, consider switching to low-cut or no-show socks to protect your shoes from odor buildup.

2. Rotating Shoes

Wearing the same pair of shoes every day doesn’t give them enough time to dry out between uses. To prevent odors, rotate between multiple pairs of shoes, giving each pair a chance to air out and dry thoroughly.

3. Regular Shoe Cleaning

Cleaning your shoes regularly is crucial to keeping odors at bay. Remove and wash insoles whenever possible, and consider washing fabric shoes in the washing machine. For shoes that can’t be washed, use baking soda or shoe deodorizer regularly to maintain freshness.

Conclusion

By using simple methods like baking soda, vinegar, or essential oils, you can instantly remove unpleasant smells from your shoes. Regular maintenance, such as wearing socks, cleaning shoes, and rotating pairs, will help prevent future odors. With these tips, you’ll keep your shoes smelling fresh and clean, even after heavy use.